It's not asking too much for the Grizzlies to beat the Wizards. Memphis, after all, is the vastly superior team. The Grizzlies were 20 games above .500 last season. Washington finished eight games below .500.

The Grizzlies are anxious for a win being 0-2. They played well in a 108-104 loss to the world champion Nuggets last night. Memphis would have beaten most teams with its performance, including the Wizards.

The oddsmaker is overrating the situation and Memphis being without suspended Ja Morant.

The Wizards haven't played since Wednesday while the Grizzlies will be in action without rest. It's so early in the season that there isn't a fatigue factor for Memphis. The Grizzlies are stepping way down in class. The Wizards played no defense in their opener, a 143-120 loss to the Pacers.

Washington gave up 32 fast-break points to Indiana. Memphis had 22 fast-break baskets against Denver. The Wizards are in transition without Bradley Beal, who has been their leading-scorer and go-to-guy since the 2017-18 season. Beal is with the Suns now. The Wizards haven't found a rhythm without Beal. They are experimenting with their rotation. I don't see the Wizards getting this turned around against the Grizzlies.

As for Morant's absence, the Grizzlies have a capable point guard in Marcus Smart. He's a better defensive guard than anybody the Wizards have.